Proposed Solution
To promote student involvement in the local community, we propose that Wake Forest University consider establishing and funding a one-year pilot program to partner with Uber to provide rides to and from service sites (e.g., schools, community centers, nonprofits) for students seeking to fulfill the mission of Pro Humanitate.
Uber allows efficient travel for students that does not require them to own vehicles or have a driver’s license. Uber has the name recognition and reliability in the ride-share industry, and many students already use the Uber application (app). The Uber app also allows for flexibility; a student can use the app when convenient for them, or their group, and cars are readily available whenever a student might need one. Because Uber does not need a reservation nor does it require a long wait time between rides, the app is optimal for students to volunteer when their schedules allow.
For the university's ride-sharing system to be effective, the Uber application has the capability to specify sites for drop-off and pick-up for student transportation that the university selects. It allows the university to determine a maximum price for rides that the university will cover. Additionally it has a carpool option which can allow for multiple students to travel together. It provides data for oversight of the system to ensure that it is not being abused. This system would require a staff member to oversee this program.
As opposed to shuttles, or vans, the university limits their insurance liability, because it does not need to hire drivers. The students gain independent travel options that allow them to serve in the community. This transportation makes students more attractive to organizations providing volunteer and internship experiences because they are student volunteers who would be more consistent and, ultimately, more reliable.
Finally, safety is always the most important consideration. For more information on Uber's new safety features with important insights for university students, see this article from Forbes.com.
Uber allows efficient travel for students that does not require them to own vehicles or have a driver’s license. Uber has the name recognition and reliability in the ride-share industry, and many students already use the Uber application (app). The Uber app also allows for flexibility; a student can use the app when convenient for them, or their group, and cars are readily available whenever a student might need one. Because Uber does not need a reservation nor does it require a long wait time between rides, the app is optimal for students to volunteer when their schedules allow.
For the university's ride-sharing system to be effective, the Uber application has the capability to specify sites for drop-off and pick-up for student transportation that the university selects. It allows the university to determine a maximum price for rides that the university will cover. Additionally it has a carpool option which can allow for multiple students to travel together. It provides data for oversight of the system to ensure that it is not being abused. This system would require a staff member to oversee this program.
As opposed to shuttles, or vans, the university limits their insurance liability, because it does not need to hire drivers. The students gain independent travel options that allow them to serve in the community. This transportation makes students more attractive to organizations providing volunteer and internship experiences because they are student volunteers who would be more consistent and, ultimately, more reliable.
Finally, safety is always the most important consideration. For more information on Uber's new safety features with important insights for university students, see this article from Forbes.com.